Positivity helps you cope
Practical advice is available for those suffering from Parkinson’s and their carers
Parkinson’s is a neurological condition affecting about 127,000 people in the UK and everyone’s experience of living with it is different. Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s can come as a shock, but trying to stay positive will help you deal with it.
There is no cure for it, but many people live well with the condition and drugs help to control the symptoms. Parkinson’s UK suggests that having the right attitude is a big part of coping with the disease.
It’s important not to let Parkinson’s (or any other long-term condition) become your only focus in life. That can easily happen if you just stay at home.
There are friendly and caring Parkinson’s support groups across the country
It may be an effort to go out if you have mobility problems, but it will be well worth the effort! Try to get plenty of exercise and continue the hobbies and interests you enjoyed before you were diagnosed. Keeping stress under control is important too.
Talking to other people in a similar situation always helps and there are Parkinson’s support groups across the country. These are friendly and caring and offer both people with Parkinson’s and their carers the chance to socialise and to chat to other people for support.
New to Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s UK has produced a practical ‘to do’ list for anyone who has just been diagnosed:
✔ If you drive, it’s a legal requirement to tell the DVLA (or the DVA if you live in Northern Ireland) that you have Parkinson’s. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to give up driving, but you may need a medical or a driving assessment.
✔ Contact your insurance providers as having Parkinson’s may affect any insurance policies you have. Tell your car insurance company about your diagnosis. Travel insurance may be affected, too.
✔ Check what benefits and grants you may be able to receive. ✔Research shows that doing two and a half hours of exercise a week can help to slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms. If you are newly diagnosed and your condition is mild, concentrate on exercising as much as you can for as long as you can.
■ Being in touch with other people who understand your situation can really help. Visit www.parkinsons.org.uk where you can join a forum or call their helpline on 0808 800 0303. The website will also have details of local groups near you.
■ To obtain a copy of the booklet, Living with Parkinson’s, call the helpline or download it from their website